Oxford Unveils Ford Center’s Exciting 2024-2025 Schedule
Oxford, MS – The Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts has officially announced its roster of shows for the 2024-2025 season, featuring an exciting mix of musical performances, comedy acts, and engaging educational programs. Tickets are now available for purchase, and the lineup is sure to appeal to both university students and the wider Oxford community.
Diverse Offerings for Students and Community
According to Julia Aubrey, the director of the Ford Center, this season is packed with a variety of entertainment options that cater to the interests of university students. “There are plenty of shows this fall and in the spring that will interest our university students,” she noted, adding that attendees should inquire about student discounts when purchasing tickets.
Kickoff with Comedy
The fall season will kick off on Thursday, August 29, with the stand-up comedy performance by Ole Miss alum, Heather McMahan. Aubrey mentioned, “We had the Ole Miss students in mind when we booked Heather McMahan as our opening show this fall. She is an alumna and highly popular with a younger demographic.”
Broadway Hits and More
This year, audiences can expect a broad selection of shows, including the six-time Tony Award-winning musical “Dear Evan Hansen” during the fall semester. This acclaimed production will bring its powerful story and memorable soundtrack to the Ford Center stage.
In the spring, theatergoers can look forward to a mesmerizing performance of “Hadestown,” a musical by Anaïs Mitchell that brings a fresh twist to the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice.
Country Music and More Musical Experiences
Fans of rock music will get a special treat on September 12 when former lead vocalist of Journey, Steve Augeri, performs some of the band’s biggest hits, including “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Any Way You Want It.”
Tributes to Music Legends
The Ford Center will also host “Britbeat,” an immersive Beatles tribute experience on February 8, promising a transformative encounter with the band’s timeless legacy. Likewise, the a cappella group Voctave is scheduled to perform on October 19, followed by the Jazz Ambassadors of the U.S. Army Band on November 18, ensuring a varied musical experience for all audiences.
Engaging Educational Programs
This season will also feature two educational programs designed to engage younger audiences. “Mister C Live! The World in Motion – Newton’s Laws” will take place on September 30, while “Our Planet Live – Life on Our Planet with Dan Tapster” is scheduled for October 17.
Festive Seasonal Performances
As the holiday season approaches, the Ford Center will present “A Charlie Brown Christmas, Live!” on December 5, bringing the beloved Peanuts gang to life on stage for a festive treat.
New Beginnings and Classic Theatre
The new year at the Ford Center kicks off on February 11 with “The Simon and Garfunkel Story,” featuring a full live band to narrate the journey of the folk-rock duo. To wrap up the 2024-2025 season, Shakespeare’s “The Comedy of Errors”, modernized by Christina Anderson, will be staged on April 1, providing a delightful conclusion to the season’s offerings.
With a lineup that promises something for everyone, the Ford Center’s 2024-2025 season is set to be a fantastic experience for both Ole Miss students and the broader Oxford community. Don’t miss the chance to catch your favorite acts and discover new performances!
